While US auto makers have been targeting China for several years, Japanese imports continue to dominate Chinese car sales, according to Japan Today. Expect that to continue while the Yen remains low, and Japan continues to manufacture moderately priced products for the middle class.

According to Japan's Kyodo News:

Japanese auto exports accounted for 40% of China's imported vehicles in 2001 and continued to dominate the market for the straight year despite punitive tariffs imposed by China, according to Chinese customs figures.

Out of 72,047 automobiles imported by China in 2001, 29,122 were from Japan. Germany took second place, exporting 17,082 vehicles, followed by South Korea with 7,263 vehicles. (Kyodo News)